"Despite more than a century of philosophers and scientists wrestling with the relationship between evolution and religion, many people still struggle to reconcile the two. Jim Stump discovered this firsthand when he had to leave his position as a professor at a Christian college because he was open to asking these questions, and decided to approach the topics as a philosopher, scientist, and writer to research, learn, travel the world, and tell stories. Along the way, a big picture emerged that is consistent with the scientific findings about who we are and where we come from, and is consistent with religious faith. The result is 'The sacred chain', which seeks to open the dialogue on this contentious issue by drawing on philosophy, theology, and the latest scientific research to tackle some of the biggest questions today, such as: How can we hold the Bible as a sacred text and yet reconcile modern science with it? If humans are created in the image of God, what does evolution have to teach us about our species and understanding our place in creation? How can we understand the soul if the human body is the product of evolution? How does the evolutionary science help us understand how God might use pain and suffering for important and good purposes? Deeply researched and a delight to read, 'The sacred chain' provides clarity in our uncertain times, revealing a bigger picture of our world and our place within it. It is a panorama consistent with the scientific findings about who we are and where we come from that can actually bolster our faith as it engages our curiosity about ourselves, our universe, and the nature of existence itself"--Dust jacket.